3 Way Split is a bit unusual for this kind of releases. We got here three really different bands, Brazilian heavy metal Prellude, Portuguese thrash Machinergy and death/thrashers from Retaliatory (Brazil again).
So let’s start from the beginning- Prellude reminds me of one classic band, that I really love. These guys sounds like non-russian version of Aria! Similar composition style, similar singers, but what’s the most important- it’s all in a good quality. I’m feeling like listening old Aria’s demo tapes, but recorded in other language. When it comes to choruses or guitar harmonies- ah yeah, really good job. Surprisingly nice for the beginning. Check the part around 4 minutes in “Misterio do Preludio dos Tempos” - that’s how classic heavy should be played. What a solo, damn!!!
Let’s go to the second band. Even if duet from Portugal is the weakest part of these album, it’s still OK. I really like the riffs and compositions here- guys mix classic thrash/speed metal with rock’n’roll influences under a Motorhead flag. But unfortunately- one thing is totally ruining everything here. Vocals. Awful singer, which tries to be brutal, but shows a lack of skill and what’s most important- doesn’t fit band’s style even a bit. It’s hard to believe, that the same person writes this fiery riffs and fast solos, and in the same time he’s destroying all these work with his voice. Change that singer, quickly- otherwise Machinergy won’t become a good band, it’s OK-level only thanks to the guitar parts.
And now it’s time for my favourite part of these album- Retaliatory. Oldschool, brutal and dirty thrash/death. Just the way I love it. The best thing here is sound- someone who’s been recording&mixing drums and guitars made a great job. Another big advantage- solos ! Fast and taken straight from hell. Deep growl as vocals but typically thrashing riffs, maybe a bit reminding me of old Kreator’s work.
To conclude- we’ve got here a good, diversed split album. From really nice heavy to brutal death/thrash. Just think how much would sound that album without Machinergy singer..
Wojciech Michalak